Abstract

Perspective

Euthanasia: Growing Acceptance amid Lingering Reluctance

Tshibambe N Tshimbombu, Immanuel Olarinde, Judea Wiggins* and Maxwell Vergo

Published: 14 February, 2025 | Volume 9 - Issue 1 | Pages: 001-006

Euthanasia has long been a contentious topic. Societal acceptance and legalization of euthanasia have increased over the past decades but still lag behind that of physician-assisted suicide (PAS). Euphemisms such as “death with dignity” have facilitated the integration of PAS into end-of-life discussions with reduced stigma. We hypothesize that the persistent use of the term “euthanasia” hinders open, compassionate communication about this practice, particularly among healthcare professionals who adhere to the ethical principle of nonmaleficence. To address this issue, we propose the adoption of euphemisms, such as “eumori,” meaning “good death,” similar to the terminology used in (PAS). These proposed terms mitigate the negative connotations associated with euthanasia. This approach serves as an initial yet significant step toward reframing euthanasia within the context of end-of-life care. Further research and dialogue are essential to explore and address other barriers to broader acceptance of euthanasia as a viable end-of-life option.

Read Full Article HTML DOI: 10.29328/journal.cjncp.1001058 Cite this Article Read Full Article PDF

Keywords:

Eumori; Euthanasia; Physician-assisted suicide; Physicians; Public

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